Our Story
Farmers’ Legal Action Group (FLAG) emerged from the farm credit crisis of the 1980s, when countless families faced the loss of their farms due to low commodity prices and crippling debt. A group of dedicated attorneys, including Jim Massey, Lynn Hayes, Sarah Vogel, and the late Dale Reesman, united to represent 230,000 farmers in the landmark case Coleman v. Lyng. This case successfully challenged the illegal practices of the Farmers Home Administration, halting the foreclosure of 80,000 farms.
In 1985, Jim Massey received a call from Willie Nelson, inviting him to the first Farm Aid concert. This pivotal moment led to the establishment of FLAG, with the mission to help family farmers retain their land. Over the years, FLAG has become a trusted advocate for family farmers, providing legal expertise and support on critical issues affecting their livelihoods.